CCI Blog

​Although the name is very begetting of its meaning, I wanted to know more in-depth what powered alcohol is and most importantly, the ramifications of this substance.

In March of 2015, four differing product labels of powered alcohol products were approved by the United States Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, which essentially opened up the door for legalization within the states.

The 2016 Idaho legislative session introduced a House Bill which ultimately stopped the possession of sale, purchase and use of powered alcohol in Idaho.

Idaho will soon join the ranks of states like, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Nevada, North Dakota, New York, Alabama, Tennessee, Ohio, and a list of about 25 total states who have banned powered alcohol all together.

Although powered alcohol will be illegal in Idaho soon, having good background knowledge into what powered alcohol is, will help in understanding some of its ramifications and why Idaho has chosen to make it illegal.

One company that produces this product is Palcohol. One packet of Palcohol is equivalent to one shot of regular alcohol, the Palcohol website said. There is no difference between the two except one is a liquid and one is a powder. This product was created with the idea that it would be easier to transport while people are traveling, for example when someone is on a hike or backpacking trip. The bag serves like the glass and all you have to do is add about five ounces of water and shake.

Now, whether or not someone is really going to snort this product I think is not the top issue. However, the easily concealable nature of powdered alcohol does pose some risks, particularly with the youth. This product is easier for youth to conceal and consume, which hosts new found risks to youth’s alcohol consumption. Powdered alcohol is simply a dried form of alcohol, which is meant to be easily mixed with water and can thus be much easier to use undetected.

Powered alcohol is not a major concern here in Idaho, but knowing the facts behind why this substance is banned and being aware of what kinds of new substances that are accessible to youth is important. Clearly the Idaho State Legislature saw this product as enough of a health risk to craft a bill having it banned entirely from the state.

Contact communitycoalitionsofidaho@gmail.com if you are seeing a problem with an unknown substance in your communities and we can help you get in contact with the right authorities for assistance.